100 Things You Should ALWAYS Keep in Your Car

Be prepared for anything on your next road trip. Photo: Creative Commons

Dad might be driving but Mom needs to be prepared.

We all know who will be madder than a hornet on an August afternoon if the family gets stranded on the side of the highway. I’ve driven across North America, and I know how to pack a car, especially those car emergency kit must haves.

You know that feeling when pulling out of the driveway that you forgot something? Don’t get it on your next trip when you use this list for car emergency kit must haves.

Car Emergency Kit Must-Haves

Keep on schedule and arrive to your destination safely. Keeping your car in good working order helps prevent roadside emergencies.

Spare tire-some newer cars might not have one

Jack–see if it’s complete before you need it.

Tire gauge

Tire inflator and sealer for emergency flat repair

Lug key–If your car requires one.

Car manual–What’s that mysterious light that just popped on your dash?

Jumper cables

Quart of oil + funnel

Leatherman tool or minimum a flat head and Phillips head screw driver along with adjustable pliers

Duct tape

WD-40

Flares

Paper Maps–Grab them for free at a state’s welcome center.

What’s in your Glove Compartment

Stock your glove compartment with items you need to keep within arms reach, in case of emergency.

AAA membership card, or other travel insurance card

Copies of Drivers license and car insurance card

Car manual

Flashlight with fresh batteries

Window breaker and seat belt cutter

Matches or lighter

Car maintenance log

Multi Purpose Tool, like Leatherman

Tire Gauge

A well stocked first aid kit is a must for every one in every car. Photo: Pixabay

First Aid Supplies

Life with kids is unpredictable. Scapes and falls happen frequently so be prepared. I keep my first aid kit under the driver’s seat.

Assorted bandages

Antibiotic cream

Anti-itch cream

Anti-bacterial gel

Pain reliever, adults and kids

Allergy medication, like Benadryl

Antacids

Eye Wash

Lip balm

Extra required medication

Tweezers

Console Compartment

Got a console compartment? Load it up with these essentials.

Wipes

Extra money, especially change for old-school parking meters.

Extra napkins or paper towels

Facial tissue

Extra sunglasses

Paper to write on

List of phone numbers to friends or family. Just in case the phone goes missing.

Catherine Parker

Catherine Parker has a passion for travel with only two states left in her quest of seeing all 50. As a former flight attendant with one of the largest airlines, there isn't a major North American airport that she hasn't landed in at least once. Since clipping her professional wings after 9/11, she combines her love of the open road with visiting national parks, historic sites and cultural icons. She is based out of Central Texas, dividing her time between writing and restoring a 95-year-old house. She shares her life with her three kids, her husband, two cats, a dog and six backyard chickens.